There’s nothing obvious about these quirky city break choices, which are our top tips for your 2018 holiday.
1. Sorrento
This charming town on the Amalfi Coast boasts magnificent views of the Bay of Naples looking out to the beautiful Isle of Capri, with mighty Vesuvius in the distance. Explore the narrow streets surrounding Piazza Tasso overlooked by the 15th century Duomo, where you can see Sorrento's famous wood mosaics, known as intarsio or head down to the seafront with its charming tavernas and picturesque terracotta coloured buildings.
Must-see
Take the train to visit the world-famous sites of Herculaneum and Pompeii.
Must-do
Enjoy a Limoncello, the refreshing local liqueur with the tangy taste of fresh lemons.
Stay at the Hotel Villa Garden
This romantic hotel enjoys spectacular views over the Bay of Naples. The attractive Marinella beach is nearby, and it is a comfortable stroll into the centre of Sorrento.
2. Funchal
If you thought Madeira was just for the oldies, think again. The quaint city of Funchal is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of this sub-tropical island. Enjoy the stunning scenery on foot, walking along the trails which criss-cross the landscape running alongside the irrigation channels known as levadas.
Must-see
Enjoy a boat trip to spot whales and dolphins in the clear, warm waters around Madeira.
Must-do
Take a trip on the Monte cable car for stunning views down over the bay of Funchal and the tiled roofs of the old town.
Stay at the Quinta Casa Branca
This luxurious hotel blends cutting edge contemporary design with traditional architecture, set in lush mature gardens, combining the best that Funchal has to offer.
3. Kyrenia
Kyrenia is picture-postcard pretty; an archetypal Mediterranean town with a horseshoe-shaped harbour, overlooked by an impressive castle, with a backdrop of spectacular mountains. The surrounding coastline boasts sandy bays and rocky coves with picturesque mountain villages inland.
Must-see
If you’re visiting over the summer, you may be lucky enough to see baby turtles hatching – North Cyprus is one of the main breeding grounds for rare loggerhead and green turtles.
Must-do
Climb up to the top of the ruined mountain fortress of St. Hilarion for the best views over the northern coastline of the island.
Stay at the Bellapais Gardens Luxury Boutique Hotel
This charming hotel is set at the foot of the ruined Gothic Abbey in the sleepy village of Bellapais, in the foothills of the Five Finger Mountains, overlooking the beautiful bay of Kyrenia below.
4. Trogir
Often overlooked in favour of its larger neighbour, Split, Trogir is an astonishingly well-preserved medieval walled city on the northern Dalmatian Coast. It is perfect for those who want to take a step back in time to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life and a great base from which to explore the many tiny islands which dot this part of Croatia’s coastline.
Must-see
Take a trip by boat to nearby Split and visit the Emperor Diocletian’s Palace at the heart of the atmospheric old town.
Must-do
Borrow a bike from your hotel and enjoy leisurely days, exploring the narrow streets and charming piazzas of the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir.
Stay at the Brown Beach House Hotel and Spa
Set on the island of Ciovo, this boutique hotel is effortlessly cool and boasts beautiful views over Trogir, combining contemporary design with traditional architecture.
5. Conversano
Puglia is one of our favourite parts of Italy, and the ancient town of Conversano is the perfect place from which to explore this beautiful region. At its heart is a maze of narrow streets converging on its grand castle, impressive cathedral and beautiful town square.
Must-see
Explore the countryside and the distinctive trulli, which are the unique architectural features of this region.
Must-do
Take a trip to the beautiful coast, just 10 kms away, to swim in the crystal-clear water and enjoy fresh fish at a seafront restaurant.
Stay at the Hotel Corte Altavilla
This quirky boutique hotel was once home to the court of the famous Counts of Altavilla. It is the perfect choice for a romantic holiday and boasts a sumptuous spa.
If you would like some advice on the perfect city break destination for you in 2018, then call our friendly team now on 01694 722193. They will be happy to give you the benefit of their first-hand knowledge to find the right city break for you.
